Milton Williams v. Central Brands LLC

Case Summary

According to the complaint, Milton Williams, a visually-impaired individual, is suing Central Brands LLC for failing to make its website, www.fancybands.net, accessible to blind users. Williams alleges that he encountered numerous barriers while trying to access products and services on the site, which violates the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and other New York laws. He seeks a permanent injunction requiring the company to improve website accessibility and compensatory damages for the discrimination faced. The complaint highlights the need for compliance with established web accessibility guidelines to ensure equal access for visually-impaired consumers.

Causes of Action

• Violations of the ADA
• Violations of the NYSHRL
• Violations of the NYCHRL
• Violation of GBL § 349

Key Allegations

• Defendant's website is not accessible to blind and visually-impaired individuals.
• Plaintiff encountered multiple access barriers while attempting to use the website.
• Defendant has failed to comply with WCAG 2.0 guidelines.

Requested Relief

• A preliminary and permanent injunction to prohibit Defendant from violating the ADA and related laws.
• A declaration that Defendant's website discriminates against the blind.
• Compensatory damages for violations of civil rights under New York laws.

Proposed Class

all legally blind individuals in the United States who have attempted to access Defendant’s Website and as a result have been denied access to the equal enjoyment of goods and services offered by Defendant’s Website, during the relevant statutory period

Jurisdiction & Venue

The Court has subject-matter jurisdiction under 28 U.S.C. § 1331 and 42 U.S.C. § 12181, and supplemental jurisdiction under 28 U.S.C. § 1367.